The audio sermon is posted below. But first let me share with you, the Church Requel reader, some cool impressions I have from last night's service. I'm greatly encouraged! I worked hard all week long to keep up my spirits after the 4th of July service. I knew the service last week was good AND I know that church on Sunday night of our nation's birthday is problematic. But I think within myself, even though I knew not to be, in my heart I was discouraged. I prayed as much Sunday afternoon in the quiet place of my soul. I asked, and God granted, a new spirit of encouragement. Shorty came up to me shortly after and said, "It looks like someone has lifted a weight off your shoulders!" I really didn't even know it was showing.
We had a great service last night. Sure we had some sound problems in getting started. Nate and Brian handled themselves well and everyone just sort of relaxed. I was all ready to go up front and buy us some time to let the tech guys work things out... but no need. Things resolved themselves quickly. At one point our computer froze so the words and images on the screen stopped. I walked back but Haleigh had things well in hand. She has really learned her CG skills well. And I thought to myself, 'We're really fighting it tonight. Good things must be about to happen!'
There are a few ways it seemed like we turned a corner last night. First, I think I and everyone else who was there was just... comfortable. The service flowed from one element to another. When I got up to preach I felt like I was with friends and sharing with them what I had learned this week. People were fully engaged throughout. Second, we had several guests and visitors with us last night - a few I already knew, but several more who was there for the first time. Third - I had several people talk to me after the service about how they might be a part. One lady in particular wondered if I'd be interested in using her drama writing abilities. (uh... yes!)
Finally, people stayed and talked and talked and talked. Mark Shaw told me, "It looks like we have a gab fest going tonight!" I can't describe it other than to say no one was in any hurry to leave. We didn't close the place down until 8:30! People were enjoying the afterglow of fellowship. It was wonderful. And rewarding. This is the big reward! To see people in relationship with God and with one another, where a year ago most of them didn't even know one another!
Here is the audio sermon from last night. My prayer would be that it would be as much a blessing to you as it was to me and to those present on Sunday night. (For those of you who like to watch, I hope to have the video up Tuesday or Wednesday.) What does it mean to share one mind and one spirit? Join me as we study Philippians 2:1-5.
